Seminario 26/04 – Rita Zablotska (Kiev State University) – WTO: Principles, Challenges and Prospects for Reform

Información

This lecture examines the role of the World Trade Organization as the main institution of the multilateral trading system, which promotes transparency, predictability, non-discrimination, and the peaceful settlement of trade disputes. The lecture explains how international trade supports economic growth, productivity, poverty reduction, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The lecture also reviews the key principles of the WTO system, including the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) principle, National Treatment, trade liberalization, transparency of trade policy, and Special and Differential Treatment for developing countries. Practical examples such as the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the Aid for Trade initiative are used to show how trade can support inclusive development.

Particular focus is placed on current challenges to the global trading system, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia’s war against Ukraine, supply chain disruptions, growing protectionism, and geo-economic fragmentation. These developments have raised important questions about the future of multilateral trade cooperation.

The lecture further discusses current WTO reform debates, including digital trade rules, sustainability issues, dispute settlement reform, and the growing use of plurilateral agreements and Joint Statement Initiatives. It is concluded that maintaining an open, rules-based, and modernized trading system remains essential for global stability, sustainable growth, and equal opportunities for developed and developing countries alike.